1. What are the factors influencing absorption?

The absorption of drugs and substances in the body is influenced by various factors. These factors
can affect how quickly and to what extent a drug is absorbed into the bloodstream, ultimately
impacting its therapeutic effect. Some of the key factors influencing absorption include:

A. Route of Administration: The method by which a drug is administered plays a significant role
in absorption. Different routes, such as oral (by mouth), intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM),
subcutaneous (SC), transdermal (through the skin), and inhalation, have varying absorption
rates and bioavailability.

B. Drug Formulation: The formulation of a drug, including whether it is a tablet, capsule, liquid,
or suspension, can affect its dissolution and absorption. Some formulations may be absorbed
more rapidly than others.

C. Chemical Properties of the Drug: The chemical characteristics of the drug, such as its
solubility in water or lipids, its molecular size, and its ionization status, can impact absorption.
Lipophilic (fat-soluble) drugs may have better absorption in fatty tissues, while hydrophilic
(water-soluble) drugs may be absorbed more readily in aqueous environments.

D. Concentration of the Drug: The concentration or dose of the drug administered can affect
absorption. Higher doses may saturate absorption mechanisms and result in slower absorption
rates.

E. pH Levels: The pH of the environment where the drug is absorbed can influence its ionization
and solubility. Some drugs are better absorbed in acidic environments, while others prefer
alkaline or neutral conditions.

F. Gastrointestinal Factors: For orally administered drugs, factors in the gastrointestinal (GI)
tract can affect absorption. These include gastric emptying rate, intestinal transit time, and the
presence of food in the stomach, which can delay or enhance absorption.

G. Blood Flow to Absorption Sites: Adequate blood flow to the site of drug absorption is crucial.
In areas with high blood flow, such as the small intestine, drugs are absorbed more efficiently.

H. First-Pass Metabolism: Drugs absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract are subject to first-
pass metabolism in the liver before entering the systemic circulation. This can reduce the
bioavailability of some drugs.

I. Drug-Drug Interactions: The presence of other drugs in the body can interfere with
absorption. Some drugs may compete for absorption sites or alter the pH in the GI tract,
affecting the absorption of co-administered drugs.